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It’s a well-known fact that shower curtains are susceptible to the growth of mold and mildew. Unsightly patches can develop on shower curtain liners, in tile grout, and in damp crevices as a result of poor ventilation. Surprisingly, the way you handle the curtain after a steamy shower can significantly impact the situation. Growing up, my mother always insisted on closing the shower curtain after showering, while I’ve had roommates who preferred to leave it open. This led me to wonder: Which method is more effective for controlling moisture and promoting air circulation?
Our team of cleaning experts at the esteemed Good Housekeeping Institute is here to finally put an end to the long-standing shower curtain debate — whether it should be left open or closed. Whether this is a perpetual source of disagreement in your household or you’ve never really pondered why your shower curtain is prone to mold, this cleaning guidance might revolutionize your shower routine.
So, should the shower curtain be left open or closed? The professionals have weighed in: It is advisable to fully close the shower curtain. “After showering, it is recommended to draw back and straighten out the shower curtain, ensuring that there are no folds where water could accumulate,” advises Carolyn Forté, the Executive Director of the Home Care & Cleaning Lab.
Shower curtains and plastic liners that are left open can properly dry, thus preventing the accumulation of mold and mildew. Additionally, bathrooms with closed shower curtains generally appear neater, especially when hosting guests. Some argue that leaving the shower curtain open aids in faster moisture evaporation and promotes airflow in the bathroom. However, Forté argues that “sufficient air circulation still occurs around the sides and top for the walls and tub to dry even with the curtain closed.”
In fact, shower walls tend to dry quite rapidly, according to Forté. With an open shower curtain, moisture becomes trapped in the folds of the curtain or liner, prolonging the drying process significantly. A pro tip: Plastic curtain liners can be machine washed on a warm, delicate cycle and then dried on low heat for a brief period.
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